Using an orthodox prayer rope is one of the many ways that you can spend time in prayer. While this might not be the most exciting way to spend your prayer time, you should know that it will help you to make your prayer experience more meaningful.
Table of Contents
Lestovka prayer rope
Among Orthodox Christians, Lestovka is a special type of prayer rope. It is traditionally made of leather, and is worn by Old Believers. However, it is also used by Orthodox Christians from other denominations. Lestovka has been in use in Russia for centuries. It is also used by Eastern Catholics and Russian Old Believers today.
Lestovka prayer rope is a closed circle of small loops or knots arranged asymmetrically. Each knot has a scroll with the Jesus Prayer woven in. These loops are often decorated with beads or embroidery.
Lestovka prayer rope is made from soft leather. It is a very useful and practical form of prayer rope. Lestovka can be used for counting prostrations, the litany responses, and even repeated prayers. The prayer rope is usually held in the left hand during prayer.
Counting litany responses
Counting litany responses may be a drag, especially when the choir is as aural as a well-appointed sock. In my tests, this trinity of aforementioned neophytes lasted the equivalent of two hours – with the best behaved equating to about a mediocre two. In my humble opinion, this is the best time to be. It was only when the sex was sorted out that I reverted to my more laid back form. Despite the aforementioned ailments, I remain awed. I had a hard time refocusing my mind back to my oh so dear. This is a lesson in the true art of piety. I could have been a neophyte if I had my homework and a bit of sanity. The aforementioned sex prompted a bit of oomph ax a tad.
Symbol of the Good Shepherd
Symbol of the Good Shepherd on orthodox prayer rope is not a magic potion or an amulet. It is an important symbol for all Orthodox Christians. In fact, it has been used as an icon in Christian art since the early centuries. It serves as a mediator between the earthly world and the Kingdom of God.
This icon is often compared to the image of David before his reign in Judea. It is also a symbol of the Savior for the entire human race. It shows Jesus as a young shepherd with sheep on his shoulders. The shepherd has a halo and a belted tunic.
The Good Shepherd icon is one of the oldest symbolisms used in Christian art. It is based on the Gospel.
Sign of the cross
Using an orthodox prayer rope can help you focus on your prayer. It also helps you remember to pray without ceasing. You can use the rope to keep track of how many bows or prostrations you’ve made while praying. You can also make a Sign of the Cross over your body as you pray.
The Sign of the Cross is a ritual gesture performed before prayer, to express reverence and devotion to God. It is most commonly made at the name of the Holy Trinity. It can also be made at the name of a saint.
While the exact origins of the Sign of the Cross are unclear, some sources claim it originated with the ancient ascetic who prayed to stop demons’ tricks. It was also used by the early Roman Catholics.
Whispering to keep your mind on prayer
Using orthodox prayer rope to whisper the Jesus Prayer can be an effective method for keeping your mind on prayer. It can also be used to count the number of prostrations you make during prayer.
The traditional Orthodox prayer rope is made of leather, wool, or fronds. It is woven with beads of wool or stone. It is usually crowned with a cross with fringe.
The traditional Orthodox prayer rope is designed to be soft and quiet, allowing the user to focus on the words. A rope of 100 knots is the standard. It is a two-foot-long cord and is used to support the recitation of the Offices.
Another variant is a lestovka, which is a more practical option than a knotted cord. It is made from leather and has its own symbology. It is suited for counting prostrations and litany responses.
